| “Church discipline
is the church’s exercise of authority given by Christ, both
in the direction of guidance, control, and nurture of its members
and in the direction of constructive criticism of offenders.”
(Book of Order, D-1.0101).
Judicial
process is the means by which church discipline is implemented
within the context of pastoral care and oversight (Book of
Order, D-2.0101). It is the exercise of authority for the
church by the governing bodies for the prevention and correction
of:
a. irregularities and delinquencies by governing
bodies, the General Assembly Council, or an entity of the
General Assembly (referred to as remedial cases); and
b. offenses by persons (referred to as
disciplinary cases).
Judicial process is explained in the Rules
of Discipline found in the Book of Order, which is Part
Two of The Constitution of
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
The General Assembly, each synod, and each
presbytery elects a permanent judicial commission composed of
ministers and elders subject to its jurisdiction. The General
Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission (GAPJC) is composed of
one member from each of its constituent synods (16). The GAPJC
has original jurisdiction in remedial cases and appeals.
The GAPJC has only the powers prescribed by
and conducts its proceedings according to The
Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). |
